Tamoxifen & Zolidex

Hi Annie, My regime was a little different to what you are having. I am 42 and took Zoladex during my 4 rounds of chemo (last session yesterday!), and will commence taking Tamoxifen in about 3 weeks at the same time as I start radiotherapy.

I was more anxious about the menopause symptoms from the zoladex then about the chemo symptoms to tell you the truth, but in the end it wasnt that bad. I was particuarly expecting to get very cranky! But that didnt eventuate.

My hot flushes started about three weeks after the first implant. I had a couple of terrible ones at the start that came up from the feet to the head and wouldnt go away, but since then its been a hot and sweaty head/face every now and then and particualrly after alcohol. I havent been drinking alot of alchol anyway, but the experience has encouraged me to say no more often.

I have ceiling fans in my house which are fantastic when I have a flush, and I also have a hand held old fashioned fan from an asian market that I take out with me. Its been great from the cinema/theatre where you cant move, but just need some relief.

My sleep has been a bit disturbed - blankets on, blankets off! But not too much of a hassle. My oncologist tells me the tamoxifen symptoms should be less than those from the Zoladex which will be good if I am to last the 5 years!

I too am anxious about weight gain. Was hoping to lose soem throguh chemo, but no such luck! The last thng I need is more kilos due to tamoxifen so will need to get back to an exercise program soon.

All the best for your journey

Fiona